A giant STEP
Tech. Sgt. Brian Mentel, 11th Contracting Squadron, is awarded the rank of master sergeant by Col. Jon A. Roop, 11th Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Robin Johnson, 11th Wing command chief, under the stripes for exceptional performer’s promotion system Dec. 19 on Bolling. The STEP program allows commanders to promote members between the ranks of E-4 to E-6 on the spot to the next highest rank. Few of these promotions happen each year and are reserved for exceptional individuals. Recipients are nominated by their commanders and compete via packages against other eligible persons. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airmen Tim Chacon)